Nutrition for Senior Dogs

As your canine companion grows older, it is important to keep a closer eye on their exercise and eating habits. Older dogs have special nutritional needs that must be met by proper feeding and care. Keeping your mature dog fit and lean will enhance their lifespan and increase your pet’s quality of life!

For your canine to maintain a healthy digestive system, include prebiotics in their diet like dried chicory root. The digestion of these prebiotics produces short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) which serve as an energy source for intestinal cells and beneficial bacteria. (It’s a good thing, I promise!)

To protect your senior dog from damage caused by aging, provide antioxidants in their food like Vitamin E or Selenium. You can also include vitamins like L-carnitine in your pet’s diet which can regulate their blood sugar and convert fat to energy. Always be sure to check the nutritional labels of your pet’s food to ensure the product will meet the needs of your senior dog.

Chicken Soup for the Pet Lovers Soul urges senior dog owners to take the extra time required to provide their older canines with proper dietary nutrition. If you have additional suggestions for keeping your senior dog healthy, please share them on the comment form below!